Tuesday, December 17, 2019

First Listen: New Releases for 13 December

A handful of noteworthy releases this week:


Artist: Atmosphere
Album: Whenever
Quick Description: Solid traditional rap music.
Why You Should Listen: This is a near-perfect mix of music and flow.
Overall Thoughts: Every time I listen to a new Atmosphere record, I remember how much I like it and kick myself for not listening more. The opening track, "Bde Maka Ska," sets a great tone, "Postal Lady" striking a nice counterbalance later... everything here just works, and it's one of the better rap albums I've heard recently.
Recommendation: Worth the time.


Artist: Venetian Snares
Album: Greg Hates Car Culture
Quick Description: Frenetic electronica.
Why You Should Listen: Really different and fascinating.
Overall Thoughts: I don't generally cover reissues in this space, but I got really into this one really quickly this week and I'm making an exception. First released as a vinyl-only album 20 years ago, the opening track is all over the place in all the best ways, and it continues on a similar trajectory of being pretty out there and pushing the limits of accessible electronic music throughout its runtime. This is absolutely not for everyone, but if you're feeling ambitious, there are rewards galore in this one.
Recommendation: Don't miss out on this.

Of note:

* BT - Everything You're Searching For is On the Other Side of Fear
* St. Vincent - Nina Kraviz Presents MASSEDUCTION
* Slum Village and Abstract Orchestra - Fantastic 2020, Vol. 2
* Annie Hart - A Softer Offering

7:

* gwEm - Break and Enter
* Siobhan Wilson - Plastic Grave

EP:

* John Cameron Mitchell and Eyelids - Turning Time Around
* Okay Kaya - Asexual Wellbeing
* The Shins - When I Goose-Step
* American Football - Year One Demos

Also:

* Warren Storm - Taking the World By Storm
* Le Butcherettes - Live at Cloud Hill
* Dirty Projectors - Sing the Melody
* Frank Turner - Live 2000: Live at Rottingham Rock City
* machinegum - Conduit

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